30 Best Songs That Start With the Letter A: An Ultimate Playlist

Updated at: 01/06/2025

The world of music is vast and varied, a sprawling landscape filled with countless unforgettable melodies. But sometimes, the simplest starting point can unlock a treasure trove of incredible sounds. This exploration focuses on songs whose titles begin with the letter "A," a seemingly arbitrary constraint that nevertheless reveals a remarkable diversity of artists and styles. From the soulful croons of one legendary singer to the raw energy of a groundbreaking band, the songs included here showcase the enduring power of music to transcend time and genre. We're celebrating the artistry behind these unforgettable tracks, reminding ourselves of their impact and offering a chance for new listeners to discover the beauty and depth they hold. These songs are not just catchy tunes; they are snapshots of significant moments in musical history.

This collection, far from being a simple alphabetical list, offers a journey through musical evolution. You'll find anthems of love and loss, reflections on the human condition, and explosive bursts of rock and roll energy, all unified by that initial "A." Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or a curious newcomer, this curated selection promises an engaging and rewarding listen. The emotional range is staggering, from intimate ballads that stir the soul to iconic tracks that defined generations. The impact of these songs on popular culture is undeniable, and their staying power is a testament to the artistry and vision of their creators. Prepare to rediscover some old favorites and to unearth some hidden gems—all starting with a single letter.

30 Best Songs That Start With the Letter A: An Ultimate Playlist
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Shape of You Ed Sheeran ÷ (Deluxe) 6B+
2. a thousand years Christina Perri ARTPOP 2B+
3. All of Me John Legend Love In The Future (Expanded Edition) 2B+
4. Smells Like Teen Spirit Nirvana Nevermind (Remastered) 2B+
5. Sweet Child O' Mine Guns N' Roses Appetite For Destruction 2B+
6. Adventure of a Lifetime Coldplay A Head Full of Dreams 2B+
7. Africa TOTO Toto IV 1B+

1. Shape of You (2017)

Looking for amazing songs starting with "A"? While "Shape of You" doesn't begin with "A," Ed Sheeran's globally acclaimed 2017 hit deserves a mention. This infectious pop/tropical house track from his ÷ (Divide) album instantly captivates with its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm. Initially released as a single, it went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance and topped charts worldwide, cementing its status as one of the most successful songs of all time. Its irresistible hook and relatable lyrics about unexpected connection quickly won over listeners, proving its lasting appeal.

Shape of You - Ed Sheeran

2. a thousand years (ARTPOP - 2025)

Has a song ever moved you to tears, resonating deeply with your heart's longing? Christina Perri's "A Thousand Years" initially featured in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1, achieved remarkable success, charting globally and earning multi-platinum certifications. Its enduring appeal stems from the heartfelt lyrics expressing unwavering love and commitment, a sentiment amplified by its use in countless weddings and romantic celebrations. The song's emotional depth and powerful melody have cemented its place as a timeless ballad, continuing to resonate with listeners years after its release.

a thousand years - Christina Perri

3. All of Me (2013)

Beginning with the letter "A," John Legend's "All of Me" is a timeless ballad that transcends genres. Its gentle piano melody and heartfelt lyrics create an intimate and emotionally resonant experience. The song's enduring popularity stems from its profoundly honest portrayal of unconditional love and commitment, resonating deeply with listeners across generations. This powerful and moving piece of music, a testament to the enduring strength of love, solidified John Legend's status as a leading voice in contemporary R&B. Its simplicity and sincerity are what makes "All of Me" a truly iconic and beloved song.

All of Me - John Legend

4. Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana)

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" Nirvana's iconic anthem, achieved more than chart-topping success; it transcended generations. The song, featured on their seminal album Nevermind, earned two MTV Video Music Awards and a place among Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone. Its unexpectedly explosive popularity, fueled by a potent blend of raw energy and relatable lyrics, catapulted grunge into the mainstream consciousness in the early 1990s and continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, evidenced by its enduring streams and lasting impact on popular music. The song's powerful message, even decades later, maintains its grip on listeners, marking a significant moment in music history.

Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana

5. Sweet Child O' Mine (Guns N' Roses - 1987)

While not beginning with "A," Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine" deserves mention as one of the best songs ever. This iconic hard rock anthem, from their debut album Appetite for Destruction, boasts Slash's instantly recognizable guitar riff, a cornerstone of rock music history. Its enduring popularity, evidenced by its billion-view milestone, speaks to the song's emotional resonance, connecting with listeners across generations and cultures through its powerful lyrics and timeless melody. The song’s impact is undeniable, securing its place as a true classic.

Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses
  • Adventure of a Lifetime
    6

    Adventure of a Lifetime

    Coldplay

    2015

    A Head Full of Dreams

  • Africa
    7

    Africa

    TOTO

    1982

    Toto IV

  • Stayin' Alive
    8

    Stayin' Alive

    Bee Gees

    1978

  • Airplanes
    9

    Airplanes

    B.o.B ft. Hayley Williams

    2010

  • Apologize
    10

    Apologize

    Timbaland,OneRepublic

    2006

    Shock Value

  • Another One Bites The Dust
    11

    Another One Bites The Dust

    Queen

    1980

    The Game (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • Always Remember Us This Way
    12

    Always Remember Us This Way

    Lady Gaga

    2018

  • A Thousand Miles
    13

    A Thousand Miles

    Vanessa Carlton

    2002

    Be Not Nobody

  • Angels
    14

    Angels

    Robbie Williams

    1997

    Life Thru A Lens

  • American Idiot
    15

    American Idiot

    Green Day

    2004

    American Idiot

  • All Along the Watchtower
    16

    All Along the Watchtower

    Jimi Hendrix

    1968

    Electric Ladyland

  • Superstition
    17

    Superstition

    Stevie Wonder

    1972

    Talking Book

  • Satisfaction
    18

    Satisfaction

    The Rolling Stones

    1965

    Out Of Our Heads

  • Sympathy For The Devil
    19

    Sympathy For The Devil

    The Rolling Stones

    1968

    Beggars Banquet (50th Anniversary Edition)

  • Scars to Your Beautiful
    20

    Scars to Your Beautiful

    Alessia Cara

    2017

  • Stairway to Heaven
    21

    Stairway to Heaven

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • Space Oddity
    22

    Space Oddity

    David Bowie

    1969

    David Bowie (aka Space Oddity) [2015 Remaster]

  • Achy Breaky Heart
    23

    Achy Breaky Heart

    Billy Ray Cyrus

    1992

    Some Gave All

  • Since U Been Gone
    24

    Since U Been Gone

    Kelly Clarkson

    2004

    Breakaway

  • 9 To 5
    25

    9 To 5

    Dolly Parton

    1980

    9 To 5 And Odd Jobs

  • At Last
    26

    At Last

    Etta James

    1960

    At Last!

  • Somebody to Love
    27

    Somebody to Love

    Queen,George Michael

    1976

    Older

  • Ain't No Sunshine
    28

    Ain't No Sunshine

    Bill Withers

    1971

    Just As I Am

  • Starman
    29

    Starman

    David Bowie

    1972

    The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (2012 Remaster)

  • Shake It Off
    30

    Shake It Off

    Taylor Swift

    2014

    1989